Failure to Assess Resident's Ability to Use Power Wheelchair
Penalty
Summary
The facility failed to ensure a resident's right to a dignified existence and self-determination regarding the use of a power mobility device. A resident with a history of cerebral infarction and depression was admitted and had a goal, as documented in an occupational therapy evaluation, to operate a power wheelchair with standby assist to maximize socialization. Despite this, therapy records showed that while the resident received services aimed at improving skills related to power wheelchair use, no actual assessment involving the use of the power wheelchair was performed. Scheduled power wheelchair training sessions did not occur, and the decision to discontinue the use of the device was based on perceived deficiencies in tactile feedback and visual scanning, without direct assessment of the resident's abilities in the power wheelchair. Interviews and observations revealed that the resident expressed a desire to use the power wheelchair to increase independence and socialization, and staff noted improvements in the resident's functional use of hands and ability to perform self-care tasks. The resident was observed participating independently in activities requiring fine motor and visual scanning skills, and staff confirmed improvements in these areas. Despite these observations and the resident's normal cognitive function, the facility did not conduct a direct assessment of the resident's ability to safely use the power wheelchair, as confirmed by the Director of Nursing Services.